Comp ii class 03/24/25 Discussion Notes on Research Paper and Mark Twain

Introduction Paragraph Assignment
  • Deadline: By Wednesday or late Tuesday night, students must post the introduction paragraph of their research paper.
  • Content: The introduction should explain:
  • The reason for selecting the topic.
  • The main argument or perspective that will later be elaborated.
  • The thesis statement, which must be the last sentence of the introduction.
  • Reference: Students can refer back to their original proposal for content ideas or start anew.
Peer Feedback
  • After posting their introduction, students are required to respond to at least three peers' posts.
  • Responses should discuss:
  • The subject matter presented by their peers.
  • The significance of their thesis statements to foster academic dialogue.
  • Purpose: To jumpstart writing and clarify the research topics of the class.
Mark Twain Discussion
  • Focus: A biographical reference to Mark Twain, particularly from Roughing It, where Twain shares humorous experiences of his youth in the West.
  • Twain's Experiences:
  • He traveled with his brother Orion and ultimately found story material rather than gold.
  • Twain worked as a dispatch writer, providing descriptions of life out West.
  • Stories would often feature humor and irony, engaging audiences during public readings.
  • Key Story Element: Stories often remain unfinished, which reflects on the nature of storytelling itself and can evoke humor, making for engaging narratives.
Upcoming Assignments
  • Research Paper: A template will be reviewed on Wednesday, crucial for organizing the paper effectively.
  • Due in approximately four weeks, highlighting the importance of early planning.
  • Assignment Specifics: Students should review the Purdue OWL for MLA formatting and revisit previous lessons for guidance on structure.
Class Discussion Highlights
  • Twain's Narrative Analysis: Emphasis on humor in Twain's storytelling and its context within his life experiences.
  • Discussions around the growth from naive eagerness to understanding complex realities (e.g., piloting a steamboat).
  • Examples of humor showcasing characters and the challenges faced, making the stories relatable and engaging.
  • Audience Engagement: The significant role humor plays in learning and understanding difficult subjects is accentuated in student discussions about Twain's storytelling style.
Importance of Research Paper Preparation
  • Students are encouraged to gather resources and quotations that will support their arguments.
  • Focus should be on developing a strong thesis statement and clear direction for the research during the writing process.
  • Classroom Support: Availability of time for questions and guidance on research topics is noted, enhancing collaborative learning.